Good practice at the data collection stage
Good data collection practices are based on a thoughtful and systematic approach that ensures reliable and ethical results.
It is important to have a clear plan and precise questions at the beginning of the study in order to choose the most appropriate data collection methods and instruments. A coherent approach is achieved through thorough training of data collectors and a pilot study, which allows gaps to be identified early. Equally important are the respect of ethical principles, ensuring that participants are informed and protecting sensitive information. Regular quality checks and detailed documentation of the methodology help to ensure data accuracy, transparency and replicability.
1. A clear research agenda
Clearly state the research questionresearch questions and detaili elaborateplanthe research process, thereby ensuringot targeted and coherent data collection.
2. Appropriate methods and tools
Use appropriate for the purposeas yescollection methods and measurement instruments.
3. Training of data collectors
Secure for all data collectors a common understanding on procedures and methods to reduce systemic and random errors, contribute to the data collected accuracy and reliability.
4. Pilot study
Test the tools and procedures in practice before the main data collection to identify gaps early.
5. Ethics and Informed informed consent
Follow Research ethical standards andwhen collecting data from people, secure of participants informo consent, privātumu and toinformation confidentiality.
6. Data security
Keep data secure and restrict access, in particular where data contain sensitive information.
7. Quality control
Check the accuracy of your data regularly and completeness, validation procedures during data entry.
8. Detailed documentation
Complete your data management plan, vcreate codebooks, describe methodology and processing steps to ensure transparency and reproducibility of research activities.
